Japanese Tankers

asked the Secretary of State for Trade to what extent he has evidence that Japanese tankers are being offered on world markets at below the cost of construction and contrary to the provisions of GATT; and, if so, what action he contemplates.

My Department has received information about the very low prices being quoted by Japanese shipyards, but I have no evidence to confirm that particular prices are below construction costs. These problems are being discussed within the EEC and OECD and are also the subject of discussion between the European Commission and the Japanese Government. If evidence were to be submitted that ships were being dumped in the United Kingdom, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade would be prepared to consider action under the Customs Duties (Dumping and Subsidies) Act 1969.